When comparing Olo vs PayPal Zettle, you’re looking at two distinct approaches to software point-of-sale technology. Olo, rated 4.3/5, offers Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. Meanwhile, PayPal Zettle, rated 4.2/5, provides Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: Olo vs PayPal Zettle
| Feature | Olo | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Software | Multi-Industry |
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Target Business | Mid-Market to Enterprise | Small Business |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | No | No |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering | Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model |
Olo Overview
Olo is a leading restaurant ordering and delivery platform powering digital transformation for 700+ brands including Shake Shack, Wingstop, and Denny’s. Provides ordering, dispatch, rails integrations, and guest engagement tools.
Olo is offered by Olo Inc. (founded 2005) based in New York, NY. The system focuses on Quick Service, Fast Casual, Enterprise Chains.
Key Features:
- Digital Ordering
- Delivery Dispatch
- Rails Integration
- Guest Data Platform
- Payment Processing
- Catering
PayPal Zettle Overview
PayPal Zettle is a mobile POS system with card readers and simple POS software. Features no monthly fees on the basic plan, integration with PayPal, and affordable hardware options.
PayPal Zettle is offered by PayPal (founded 2010) based in Stockholm, Sweden. The system focuses on Retail, Service, Mobile Businesses.
Key Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
- PayPal Integration
Feature Comparison
Olo Features:
- Digital Ordering
- Delivery Dispatch
- Rails Integration
- Guest Data Platform
- Payment Processing
PayPal Zettle Features:
- Mobile POS
- Card Reader
- Inventory Management
- Reporting
- Digital Receipts
When comparing features, Olo stands out with Powers 700+ restaurant brands, while PayPal Zettle differentiates itself with No monthly fees. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | Olo | PayPal Zettle |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Enterprise pricing (contact) | $29 (card reader) + 2.29% per transaction |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Premium | Budget |
| Free Trial | Not available | Not available |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
PayPal Zettle is more budget-friendly, making it a better choice for cost-conscious businesses. Consider the total cost of ownership including hardware, processing fees, and add-on modules when making your decision.
Pros and Cons
Olo
Pros:
- Powers major restaurant brands
- Comprehensive digital platform
- Strong delivery integrations
- Public company stability
Cons:
- Enterprise-focused pricing
- Complex implementation
- Not for small operations
PayPal Zettle
Pros:
- No monthly fees
- PayPal integration
- Affordable hardware
- Easy setup
Cons:
- Processing fees on every transaction
- Limited advanced features
- Basic reporting
Who Should Choose Olo?
Olo is ideal for Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. The system is particularly well-suited for Quick Service, Fast Casual, Enterprise Chains.
However, Olo may not be the best fit for Single-location independent restaurants.
Who Should Choose PayPal Zettle?
PayPal Zettle is ideal for Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. The system is particularly well-suited for Retail, Service, Mobile Businesses.
However, PayPal Zettle may not be the best fit for High-volume operations where processing fees add up.
Our Recommendation
Both Olo and PayPal Zettle are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose Olo if you’re Multi-location chains wanting unified digital ordering. Choose PayPal Zettle if you’re Small businesses wanting pay-per-transaction model. Olo has a higher user rating (4.3 vs 4.2). Also, choose PayPal Zettle if you want to start with a free version. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.